JP7615710B2 - Image processing system and image processing device - Google Patents

Description

The technical field disclosed in this specification relates to an image processing system and an image processing device. More specifically, it relates to switching between enabling and disabling a special function installed in an image processing device.

Some image processing devices are equipped with special functions (solutions) that have settings that can be switched between enabled and disabled. The special functions are disabled when the image processing device is shipped from the factory, and then, for example, if a user who purchases the image processing device enters into a contract with the seller of the image processing device to use the special functions, the seller of the image processing device inputs a command to enable the special functions into the image processing device, making it possible to execute processing based on the special functions. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses technology relating to image processing devices equipped with such special functions.

JP 2018-151700 A

Some users may wish to try out a special function before entering into a contract to use that function. For example, the seller of the image processing device may enable the special function, and after the user has finished trying out the function, the seller of the image processing device may disable the special function. In this case, a trial period is set during which the special function can be temporarily used, but the handling of data entered to use the special function during that trial period becomes an issue. Patent Document 1 does not disclose technology for trying out a special function, and there is room for improvement.

This specification discloses a technique for testing a special function in an image processing device that has a setting that can be switched between enabled and disabled.

An image processing system that has been made to solve this problem includes an image processing device and a server, the image processing device has a special function, the memory of the image processing device stores function information indicating whether the special function is to be enabled or disabled, the special function is disabled at the time of shipment from the factory, and the memory stores the function information indicating that the special function is disabled, when the image processing device receives an instruction to enable the special function, the image processing device enables the special function by changing the function information stored in the memory to the function information indicating that the special function is enabled, the server receives a request to start a trial mode that enables a trial of the special function, and The start request includes identification information of the image processing device, and the server, upon receiving the start request, sets a valid period of the trial mode, associates period information indicating the valid period of the set trial mode with the identification information of the image processing device included in the received start request, and outputs a start command indicating the start of the trial mode, and when the start command is input, the image processing device starts the trial mode and the special function is enabled during the valid period of the trial mode, and further, the image processing device is capable of inputting setting information used in the special function by an operation using a user interface of the image processing device during the period during which the special function is enabled, and the input The setting information is stored in the memory, and processing related to the special function is executed according to the setting information stored in the memory. Furthermore, the image processing device transmits a confirmation command to the server at a first timing during a valid period of the trial mode, the confirmation command including identification information of the image processing device. Upon receiving the confirmation command from the image processing device, the server determines whether or not the valid period of the trial mode is in progress based on the period information associated with the identification information of the image processing device included in the received confirmation command, and responds to the image processing device with status information indicating the determination result. The image processing device receives the previous information from the server. At a second timing after receiving the status information indicating that the trial mode is no longer valid, the trial mode is terminated, and when the trial mode is terminated, if the function information indicating that the special function is disabled is stored in the memory, the image processing device executes an initialization process to initialize the setting information stored in the memory, and if the function information indicating that the special function is enabled is stored in the memory, the initialization process is not executed, and the process related to the special function can continue to be executed according to the setting information stored in the memory, and the setting information can continue to be input by operating the user interface.

According to the image processing system disclosed in this specification, a trial mode is provided in the image processing device, and the image processing device enables a special function during the trial mode period, and can end the trial mode when the trial mode is no longer in effect. Therefore, a user of the image processing device can temporarily try out the special function. Furthermore, when the image processing device receives an instruction to enable the special function, it enables the special function regardless of whether the trial mode period is in effect or not. Furthermore, the image processing device initializes the setting information used for the special function that is not enabled based on the end of the trial mode. This reduces the risk of the setting information being leaked. On the other hand, if the special function is enabled when the trial mode is ended, the image processing device does not initialize the setting information, so the setting information can be continuously used and there is no need to re-enter the setting information, reducing the user's efforts.

A control method for implementing the functions of the above system, a computer program, a computer-readable storage medium that stores the program, and an image processing device or information processing device that executes the program are also novel and useful.

The technology disclosed in this specification realizes a technology for testing a special function in an image processing device that has a setting that can be switched between enabled and disabled.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the system according to the embodiment. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a procedure for starting a trial mode. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a home screen. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of information stored in a trial DB. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a procedure for starting a trial mode. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a procedure for checking the validity period of the trial mode. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen when the valid period of the trial mode has expired; FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which the form of notification outside the valid period of the trial mode is changed. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen when the valid period of the trial mode is about to expire; FIG. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen for poor Internet connection; FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a procedure for enabling an additional function. 13 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a trial end process. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the differences in function among three types of SPs. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a system. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between enabled functions and information to be initialized or erased. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a procedure for performing maintenance work during a valid period of the trial mode.

The system according to the embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. This embodiment is a system including a multifunction peripheral (hereinafter, "MFP") and a server.

As shown in FIG. 1, the system 100 of this embodiment includes an MFP 1 and a server 3, each of which is connectable to the Internet 200. The system 100 is an example of an image processing system. The MFP 1 is a device that is located at a user's site and can execute various image processing functions such as printing and scanning. The MFP 1 is an example of an image processing device. The server 3 is a device that is managed by the vendor of the MFP 1, for example, and can be accessed from each device such as the MFP 1 via the Internet 200.

As shown in FIG. 1, the MFP 1 of this embodiment includes a controller 10 including a CPU 11 and a memory 12. The CPU 11 is an example of a computer. The MFP 1 also includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 13, a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14, an image forming unit 15, and an image reading unit 16, which are electrically connected to the controller 10. Both the image forming unit 15 and the image reading unit 16 are examples of an image processing unit.

The CPU 11 executes various processes according to the programs read from the memory 12 and based on the user's operations. As shown in FIG. 1, the memory 12 stores various programs and information, including a basic program 21, multiple function programs 22-24, multiple function switches 25-27, and a trial switch 28. The memory 12 is also used as a working area when various processes are executed. The buffer provided in the CPU 11 is also an example of a memory.

User IF13 is, for example, a touch panel, and includes hardware that displays a screen for notifying the user of information, and hardware that accepts operations by the user. Note that user IF13 may be a combination of a display and an operation unit such as a button.

The communication IF 14 includes a configuration that can connect to at least the Internet 200, and includes hardware for communicating with external devices such as the server 3. The communication standards of the communication IF 14 include Ethernet (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), USB, etc. The MFP 1 may include multiple communication IFs 14 that support multiple communication standards.

The image forming unit 15 includes a configuration for printing an image based on image data on a print medium such as a sheet. The image forming method of the image forming unit 15 is, for example, an electrophotographic method or an inkjet method, and may be configured to be capable of color printing or to perform only monochrome printing. The image reading unit 16 includes a configuration for reading an image of a document and acquiring image data.

The MFP 1 of this embodiment can execute various functions using the image forming unit 15 and image reading unit 16 by executing the basic program 21 and the function programs 22 to 24. The basic program 21 is a program that is set to be executable when the MFP 1 is shipped from the factory, and is a program for causing the MFP 1 to execute basic functions that are basic functions. The basic functions include color copying, monochrome copying, and N-in-1 copying in copy processing, and color scanning and monochrome scanning in scan processing.

On the other hand, function programs 22-24 are programs for adding special functions to MFP 1. In this embodiment, MFP 1 is equipped with a number of special functions that can be added, and different additional functions are added by each of function programs 22-24. Function programs 22-24 are provided with corresponding function switches 25-27, respectively, and settings are stored for whether the additional functions by the corresponding function programs 22-24 are enabled or disabled depending on the state of function switches 25-27. For example, if function switch 25 is on, MFP 1 can accept an instruction to execute a function by function program 22 and can execute that function, and if function switch 25 is off, MFP 1 does not accept an instruction to execute that function.

When the MFP 1 is shipped from the factory, all of the function switches 25-27 are off and all additional functions are disabled. Then, when an instruction to activate the functions of the function programs 22-24 is received after the MFP 1 is shipped from the factory, the MFP 1 can execute the additional functions by switching the function switches 25-27 on. By loading the additional function programs in the MFP 1 in advance and making it possible to receive activation instructions, it is possible to add value to the MFP 1 and simplify the procedure for adding additional functions. Furthermore, by enabling only the functions necessary for the user of the MFP 1, it is possible to prevent the functions from becoming complicated.

In order to use the functions of function programs 22 to 24, the user of MFP1 must enter into a contract with a vendor or the like for each function to be used. For example, when the user enters into a contract with a vendor to use an additional function, the vendor provides the user with an activation command to activate that function. When the provided activation command is input to MFP1, MFP1 turns on the corresponding switch and becomes able to accept an instruction to execute that function.

Additional functions that can be executed by the function programs 22 to 24 include, for example, secure print, custom UI, barcode printing, and cloud storage. Secure print is a function that does not start printing immediately when image data is received, but temporarily stores the image data in the memory 12, and starts printing after authentication is successful through user operation on the user IF 13. Custom UI is a function that changes the arrangement and display form of soft keys and the like displayed on the user IF 13 according to the user's preferences. Barcode printing is a function that creates a barcode based on specified data and prints the created barcode. Cloud storage is a function that transmits image data acquired by reading an image of a document via the communication IF 14 and stores it in a storage area on the cloud. The types of function programs installed in the MFP 1 at the time of shipment from the factory are predetermined for each model of the MFP 1, but additional functions that can be installed after shipment from the factory may be provided.

The trial switch 28 is a switch for enabling all function programs 22-24 stored in the memory 12 during the trial mode period, even for functions for which function switches 25-27 are off. While the trial switch 28 is on, the MFP 1 is in trial mode, and additional functions provided by each of the function programs 22-24 can be executed. Only during the trial mode period can the user try out each additional function without signing a contract to enable the function programs 22-24.

The trial switch 28 can be in the on state, unexecuted state, or executed state. When the MFP1 is shipped from the factory, the trial switch 28 is in the unexecuted state. The trial mode is a mode that is possible only once per device, and after the trial mode ends, the trial switch 28 becomes executed. Details of the trial switch 28 will be described later.

As shown in FIG. 1, the server 3 in this embodiment is equipped with a controller 30 including a CPU 31 and a memory 32. The server 3 also has a user IF 33 and a communication IF 34, which are electrically connected to the controller 30. Note that the controllers 10 and 30 in FIG. 1 are collective names for the hardware and software used to control the MFP 1 and the server 3, and do not necessarily represent a single piece of hardware that actually exists in the MFP 1 or the server 3.

The CPU 31 executes various processes according to the programs read from the memory 32 and based on the operations of the operator. As shown in FIG. 1, the memory 32 stores various programs and data including an OS 41, a trial management program 42, and a trial database (hereinafter referred to as "trial DB") 43. The OS 41 is, for example, Windows (registered trademark), MacOS (registered trademark), or Linux (registered trademark). The buffer provided in the CPU 31 is also an example of memory.

An example of the memory 12, 32 is not limited to a ROM, RAM, HDD, etc. built into the MFP 1 or server 3, but may also be a storage medium that is readable and writable by the CPU 11, 31. A computer-readable storage medium is a non-transitory medium. In addition to the above examples, non-transitory media also include recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs. Non-transitory media are also tangible media. On the other hand, an electrical signal that carries a program downloaded from a server on the Internet is a computer-readable signal medium, which is a type of computer-readable medium, but is not included in non-transitory computer-readable storage media.

User IF 33 includes hardware that displays a screen for notifying information and hardware that accepts operations. User IF 33 may be a combination of a display and an operation unit such as a keyboard, mouse, or trackball, or may be a touch panel that has both a display function and an operation acceptance function.

The communication IF 34 includes hardware for communicating with external devices such as the MFP 1 via the Internet 200. The communication standards of the communication IF 34 include Ethernet (registered trademark) and Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The server 3 may be equipped with multiple communication IFs 14 that support multiple communication standards.

The server 3 in this embodiment manages trials of additional functions in each device such as the MFP 1 by executing the trial management program 42. Specifically, the server 3 accepts a request to start a trial from the MFP 1, etc., sends a command to turn on the trial switch 28, etc., and further manages the validity period of the trial mode.

Next, the procedure of the process for trying out the additional function will be described with reference to a sequence diagram. The following process basically indicates the process of the CPUs 11 and 31 according to the instructions written in the program. That is, the processes such as "judgment", "extraction", "selection", "calculation", "decision", "identification", "acquisition", "reception", and "control" in the following description represent the process of the CPUs 11 and 31. The process by each CPU also includes hardware control using the API of the OS. In this specification, the description of the OS will be omitted to describe the operation of each program. That is, in the following description, a description to the effect that "program B controls hardware C" may also mean that "program B controls hardware C using the API of the OS". In addition, the process of the CPUs 11 and 31 according to the instructions written in the program may be described in abbreviated terms. For example, it may be described as "performed by CPU 11". In addition, the process of the CPUs 11 and 31 according to the instructions written in the program may be described in abbreviated terms such as "performed by program A".

Note that "obtaining" is used as a concept that does not necessarily require a request. In other words, the process of the CPU 11, 31 receiving data without making a request is also included in the concept of "the CPU obtaining data." In this specification, "data" is represented as a bit string that can be read by a computer. Data with the same substantial meaning but different formats is treated as the same data. The same applies to "information" in this specification. In addition, "requesting" and "instructing" are concepts that indicate outputting information indicating a request or information indicating an instruction to the other party. Information indicating a request or information indicating an instruction is also simply referred to as "request" and "instruction."

In addition, the process by CPU 11, 31 to determine whether information A indicates event B may be conceptually described as "determining whether event B is present from information A." The process by CPU 11, 31 to determine whether information A indicates event B or event C may be conceptually described as "determining whether event B is present or event C is present from information A."

The procedure for starting a trial of an additional function on the MFP1 will be described below with reference to the sequence diagram in FIG. 2. The user inputs a start instruction, which is an instruction to start the trial mode, on the user IF 13 of the MFP1 (A01). Note that the user who inputs the start instruction for the trial mode in A01 in FIG. 2 or in FIG. 5 described later is not limited to the user who uses the MFP1, but may be, for example, a service representative or a sales representative.

Upon receiving the start instruction, the MFP 1 accesses the server 3 and transmits a request to start the trial mode (A02). In A02, the MFP 1 transmits the start request together with its own device identification information and model information.

Upon receiving the request to start the trial mode, the server 3 sets the valid period of the trial mode in the MFP 1 based on the time at that time (A03). The length of the valid period may be uniform for all devices, or may vary depending on the model information, or depending on the user or installation area of the device. When the length of the valid period is determined depending on the user or installation area of the device, the MFP 1 adds information necessary for determining the valid period to the start request and transmits it. The server 3 may also accept a specified start date for the trial mode as the request to start the trial mode, in which case the valid period is set based on the specified start date.

The server 3 associates the set validity period with the identification information of the device that is the target of the trial mode, and stores the associated information in the trial DB 43 of the memory 32 (A04). An example of information stored in the trial DB 43 is shown in FIG. 4. In the trial DB 43, for example, each piece of information such as the device ID, model name, trial start date, and trial end date is stored in association with each consecutive trial number. The device ID is identification information that distinguishes each device that is the target of the trial mode, such as a MAC address or serial number. The model name is information that indicates the model of the device that is the target of the trial mode. The trial start date is the date on which the trial mode starts, and the trial end date is the date a predetermined validity period after the trial start date. In other words, the period during which this device is in the trial mode is the period from the trial start date to the trial end date. The trial start date and trial end date are examples of period information.

In A04, the server 3 adds a new record to the trial DB 43 and stores information about the MFP 1. The server 3 then sends a start command to the MFP 1, which is the sender of the start request, to start the trial mode (A05). The start command is a command that includes an instruction to the MFP 1 to turn on the trial switch 28. The start command may include identification information of the MFP 1, which is the device that will execute the trial. Having received the start command, the MFP 1 turns on the trial switch 28 (A06) and enters the trial mode. A06 is an example of the start process. As a result, as described above, the user of the MFP 1 is able to try out additional functions provided by the function programs 22 to 24.

The MFP 1 executes A06 if the state of the trial switch 28 is not yet executed. If the MFP 1 has already executed the trial mode, as described below, the state of the trial switch 28 is already executed. In that case, the MFP 1 transmits information about the end of the trial to the server 3 without changing the state of the trial switch 28. The process at the end of the trial on the server 3 will be described later.

When the MFP 1 starts up, when it returns from a power saving mode, or when a state where no user operation is being accepted continues for a predetermined period of time, the MFP 1 displays, for example, a home screen 50 as shown in FIG. 3 on the user IF 13 after completing a process operated by the user. The home screen 50 is a screen including buttons 501 to 503 that accept the selection of a process type such as copy, scan, or fax transmission. Then, when the MFP 1 accepts the selection of a process type on the home screen 50, it displays a setting screen on the user IF 13 that accepts detailed settings according to the selected process type.

Prior to displaying the home screen 50, the MFP 1 checks whether the trial switch 28 or the function switches 25 to 27 are on (A10). Additional functions added by the trial switch 28 or the function switches 25 to 27 include functions that are added to the home screen 50 and become selectable, and functions that are added to the settings screen and become selectable. Additional functions added to the home screen 50 include, for example, secure print and a custom UI, and additional functions added to the settings screen include barcode printing that becomes selectable on the settings screen for copy processing, and cloud storage that becomes selectable on the settings screen for scan processing.

The MFP 1 determines the display contents of the home screen 50 based on the state of each switch confirmed in A10, and displays the determined home screen 50 on the user IF 13 (A11). The MFP 1 accepts the user's selection on the displayed home screen 50 via the user IF 13 (A12). Note that the instruction in A12 is given by the user or the like who uses the MFP 1. The MFP 1 then determines the display contents of the setting screen for the process selected in A12 based on the state of each switch confirmed in A10, and displays the determined setting screen on the user IF 13 (A13).

The MFP 1 displays the basic functions and acceptable additional functions selectably on the home screen 50 or each setting screen (A14). For example, if the trial switch 28 is turned on by A06, the MFP 1 displays all additional functions selectably. Also, even if the trial switch 28 is off, if at least one of the function switches 25 to 27 is on, the MFP 1 displays the additional function corresponding to the on switch selectably. The user selects a function to be executed from the selectably displayed functions and inputs an instruction to execute the function to the MFP 1 (A15). The MFP 1 executes the instructed function (A16).

On the other hand, when the trial switch 28 is off, the MFP 1 does not display on the home screen 50 or each setting screen any additional functions whose corresponding function switches 25 to 27 are off (A17). For example, if the trial switch 28 is off and all function switches 25 to 27 are off, the MFP 1 displays only the basic functions provided by the basic program 21 as selectable. The user cannot select a function that is not displayed, and therefore cannot use that additional function. Note that instead of not displaying the additional function, the MFP 1 may display it as unselectable.

Next, another example of the procedure for starting a trial will be described. In FIG. 2, an example was described in which the MFP 1 receives an instruction to start a trial on its own, transmits a start request to the server 3, and receives a start command from the server 3 (A01 to A06). This procedure can also be performed via another device rather than the MFP 1 itself. Below, the procedure for starting a trial using a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC") will be described with reference to the sequence diagram in FIG. 5. The sequence diagram in FIG. 5 shows the procedure that is executed in place of the procedures A01 to A06 in FIG. 2.

The PC 5 in FIG. 5 is a device that includes an application program (hereinafter, referred to as an "app") for executing the trial start process, and is a device that can communicate with both the MFP 1 and the server 3. Note that instead of the PC 5, a smartphone or a tablet computer may also be used.

The user of PC5 starts an app on PC5 (B01) and inputs a start command in the started app, which is an instruction to execute a process to start the trial mode (B02). PC5 sends a search signal to search for devices to be the target of the trial (B03). MFP1 sends a response signal to PC5 in response to the search signal sent from PC5 (B04). Note that if there is a device other than MFP1 that can respond to PC5's search signal, that device also sends a response signal. The response signal contains identification information of the responding device. PC5 receives the response signals from MFP1 etc. and displays a list of all devices that sent response signals (B05).

The user selects a device on which to execute the trial from the devices displayed in the list (B06). The PC 5 sends identification information indicating the selected device and a request to start the trial to the server 3 (B07). The information sent in B07 is the same as the information sent in A02 in FIG. 2. The server 3 receives the information in B07 and sets a trial period (B08), associates the set trial period with the identification information of the device being tried, and stores it in the trial DB 43 in the memory 32 (B09). B08 and B09 are the same processes as A03 and A04.

The server 3 sends information including a start command to PC 5, which is the device that sent the start request (B10). The information sent from the server 3 includes the device identification information sent from PC 5. PC 5 sends the start command to the device indicated by the identification information based on the information received from the server 3 (B12). This inputs the start command to the MFP 1. As a result of the start command being input, the MFP 1 turns on the trial switch 28 (B13) and enters trial mode. B13 is the same process as A06 in FIG. 2, and is an example of a start process.

Before transmitting the start command to the MFP 1, the PC 5 may inquire of the user as to whether or not it is OK to transmit the command. Also, the PC 5 may store the received start command in a USB memory or the like, and input the start command to the MFP 1 by having the MFP 1 read the stored start command.

The PC 5 may also display a start command based on information received from the server 3, and a user such as a service representative may input the displayed start command into the MFP 1. For example, the start command may be text such as a number string, and the user may input the text into the MFP 1 using the user IF 13 of the MFP 1.

In this embodiment, the start command sent from the server 3 is accompanied by identification information of the device that will execute the trial mode. This makes it easy for a user who starts the trial mode on multiple devices to determine the device for which each start command is to be entered. Furthermore, if the start command includes device identification information, even if the user enters the start command on the wrong device, the MFP 1 can determine whether the start command is for its own device. For example, if the device information is not that of its own device, the MFP 1 will report an error, allowing the user to immediately notice the mistake and redo the operation.

Next, management of the validity period of the trial mode will be explained. The trial mode is a mode that can only be used for a specific validity period for each device, and in this embodiment, the validity period of the trial mode is managed by the server 3. The procedure for period management within the trial mode period will be explained with reference to the sequence diagram in Figure 6.

During the trial mode period, i.e., when the trial switch 28 is on, the MFP 1 accesses the server 3 via the Internet 200 at a predetermined regular timing, such as once a day or every few hours, and transmits a confirmation command to the server 3 to confirm whether or not it is within the valid period (C01). C01 is an example of a judgment process. The timing at which the MFP 1 transmits C01 is an example of the first timing. The confirmation command transmitted from the MFP 1 includes the identification information of the MFP 1.

When the server 3 receives the confirmation command, it reads out the trial start date and trial end date stored in the trial DB 43 in association with the identification information included in the confirmation command, and compares the read date and time with the current date and time to determine whether or not the trial mode is within its valid period (C02). The server 3 then transmits status information indicating the result of the determination in C02 to the MFP 1, which is the device that transmitted the confirmation command.

In this embodiment, the server 3 has three types of status information as status information that responds to a confirmation command, and C02 determines which of the three types of status information to send. The status information sent from the server 3 includes status information indicating that the validity period is still in effect, status information indicating that the validity period has already expired and is no longer in effect, and status information indicating that the remaining validity period is within a specified period and that the validity period is about to expire.

If the server 3 determines that the function is still valid, it transmits status information indicating that the function is still valid to the MFP 1 (C03). If the function is still valid, the MFP 1 remains in the trial mode, and the user of the MFP 1 can try all the additional functions as many times as he/she likes.

If the server 3 determines that the valid period has expired, it transmits status information indicating that the valid period is no longer valid to the MFP 1 (C04). If the MFP 1 receives status information indicating that the valid period is no longer valid, it stores information indicating that the trial mode is no longer valid in the memory 12 (C05). If information indicating that the trial mode is no longer valid is stored in the memory 12, the MFP 1 notifies the MFP 1 of information indicating that the trial mode has ended, for example, when displaying the home screen 50 (see FIG. 3) (C06).

An example of a notification that the validity period has expired is shown in FIG. 7. In C06, the MFP 1 displays a notification screen 51 notifying that the validity period has expired, for example, as shown in FIG. 7(A), so as to cover a large portion of the home screen 50.

By displaying the notification screen 51, operation of the buttons 501-503 that accept the selection of the type of processing on the home screen 50 is restricted. For example, the display of the notification screen 51 may make each of the buttons 501-503 unselectable. By restricting operation on the home screen 50, it is possible to ensure that the user is aware that the valid period of the trial mode has ended. Note that the notification in C06 may be the display of the notification screen 51, or may be the display of a warning mark or a notification by audio guidance.

As shown in FIG. 7A, the notification screen 51 includes a button 511 for receiving an instruction to restart, and an "X" button 512 for receiving an instruction to iconize the notification. In order to use the MFP1, the user must first operate either of these buttons 511 or 512. The instruction to restart is an instruction to end the trial mode.

When an instruction to restart is received by operating button 511 on notification screen 51 (C11), MFP 1 determines whether or not there is an accumulated job stored in memory 12 (C12). An accumulated job is a job that includes an instruction not to execute processing until an operation on user IF 13 is received, or a job with a specified execution time. If MFP 1 has only received an accumulated job but has not executed it, the accumulated job remains stored in memory 12. Note that since MFP 1 stores accumulated jobs in volatile memory such as RAM, stored accumulated jobs are erased when MFP 1 is restarted.

When the MFP 1 determines that an accumulated job is stored, it issues a notification indicating that an accumulated job remains (C121). For example, the MFP 1 changes the notification screen 51 displayed in C06 to a notification screen 52, as shown in FIG. 7(B), which notifies the user that an accumulated job remains. The notification screen 52 is an example of a case in which a print job is stored as an accumulated job, and this notification screen 52 includes a button 521 for receiving an instruction to print and restart, and a button 522 for receiving an instruction to restart without printing. The MFP 1 then waits until it receives an instruction on button 521 or button 522.

When the MFP1 receives an instruction to execute stored job processing and restart by operating the button 521 by the user (C122), the MFP1 executes processing of all stored jobs stored in the memory 12 (C123). After C123, or when the MFP1 receives an instruction to restart without executing stored job processing, or when it is determined that no stored jobs are stored, the MFP1 ends the trial mode.

As a procedure for ending the trial mode, the MFP1 transmits trial end information, including its own identification information, to the server 3 (C13). Based on the received trial end information, the server 3 deletes the information of the MFP1 stored in the trial DB 43 (C14). The MFP1 also sets the trial switch 28 to change it to "executed," and deletes the information indicating that it is outside the period stored in C05 (C15). C15 is an example of an end process. The MFP1 then restarts (C16). The restart reflects the change in the trial switch 28, and the MFP1 does not enter trial mode again. The timing of the trial mode end procedure by C13 to C16 is an example of the second timing.

When an instruction to iconize the notification is received by operating the "x" button 512 on the notification screen 51 (C17), the MFP 1 displays the notification screen 51 in an iconized notification screen 513, for example, as shown in FIG. 8 (C18). The iconized notification is a notification in a form that is less alarming than the notification screen 51. The instruction to iconize the notification by operating the "x" button 512 is an instruction to switch the form of the notification.

The "x" button 512 may also be displayed on the notification screen 52 when there is an accumulated job, and when an operation on the button 512 is received on the notification screen 52, the MFP 1 executes the process of C18. In addition, in C18, instead of iconizing and displaying the notification screens 51 and 52, the MFP 1 may temporarily stop displaying the notification screens 51 and 52 and display the home screen 50 that does not include the notification screens 51 and 52. By iconizing or stopping the notification, the restriction on operation on the home screen 50 is lifted, and the user can operate the buttons 501 to 503 on the home screen 50 to cause the MFP 1 to execute the process. In addition, instead of iconizing or stopping the notification, for example, the amount of messages, the font size of the messages, or the volume of the voice messages may be reduced.

Even if the notification screens 51 and 52 are iconized or stopped by C18 and an operation on the home screen 50 is accepted, the trial mode has not yet ended, so the user can try out each additional function. However, when the home screen 50 is to be displayed again without being restarted, such as after the execution of a process instructed by the user has been completed, the MFP 1 displays the notification screen 51 large on the home screen 50, as shown in FIG. 7.

On the other hand, if the server 3 determines in C02 that the validity period is about to expire, it transmits status information indicating the imminent expiration to the MFP 1 (C21). If the MFP 1 receives the status information indicating the imminent expiration, it notifies the MFP 1 of information indicating that the trial mode is about to expire, for example, when displaying the home screen 50 (C22).

An example of a notification that the valid period is about to expire is shown in FIG. 9. When the MFP 1 displays the home screen 50, it displays a notification screen 53, as shown in FIG. 9, for example, to notify that the valid period is about to expire. The notification screen 53 may display, for example, a specific remaining time for the trial mode.

The notification screen 53 includes a button 531 for receiving an instruction to end the trial, and an "x" button 532 for receiving an instruction to stop the notification. Unlike the notification screen 51, the notification screen 53 may be displayed in a manner that does not restrict operations on the home screen 50. For example, the MFP 1 may automatically stop displaying the notification screen 53 after displaying it for a certain period of time. However, it is preferable to display the notification screen 53 in a conspicuous manner, such as in the center of the home screen 50 or in a flashing manner in a corner, so that it is not overlooked.

When the MFP 1 receives an instruction to end the trial mode by operating the button 531, it executes the termination procedure in the same way as when it receives an instruction to restart outside the valid period. Specifically, the MFP 1 sends trial end information to the server 3 and sets the trial switch 28 to "executed." The server 3 updates the trial DB 43. In this case, too, if the MFP 1 has stored an accumulated job, it is preferable to display the notification screen 52 notifying the user of the accumulated job and accept the user's instruction, as described above.

When the MFP1 receives an instruction to stop the notification by operating the "X" button 532 on the notification screen 53, the MFP1 stops displaying the notification screen 53. When the next valid period is checked, if it is close to expiring again, the notification screen 53 is displayed again.

If the MFP 1 is not connected to the Internet 200, it cannot send the confirmation command in C01 and cannot receive status information from the server 3. In this state, the MFP 1 cannot confirm the validity period. If the MFP 1 cannot receive status information from the server 3 at the time of sending the confirmation command to the server 3, it stores unknown information indicating that the validity period of the trial mode is unknown in the memory 12 (C31). Furthermore, the MFP 1 reports information indicating that the connection to the Internet 200 is poor (C32).

An example of a notification of a poor connection is shown in FIG. 10. When the MFP 1 displays the home screen 50, it displays, for example, a notification screen 54, as shown in FIG. 10, which notifies the user that they are not connected to the Internet 200. The notification screen 54 includes a button 541 which accepts an instruction to end the trial, and an "X" button 542 which accepts an instruction to iconize or stop the notification. The notification screen 54, like the notification screen 51, is displayed in a manner which restricts operations on the home screen 50. The user needs to operate either of these buttons 541, 542 in order to use the MFP 1.

When the MFP 1 receives an instruction to end the trial mode by operating the button 541, it executes the end procedure. However, since the MFP 1 is not connected to the Internet 200, the MFP 1 should store the fact that it has received the end instruction, and send trial end information to the server 3 after the connection is restored. In this case, too, if the MFP 1 has stored a stored job, it displays the notification screen 52 notifying the user of the stored job as described above, and accepts the user's instructions. Furthermore, the MFP 1 deletes the unknown information stored in C31, and sets the trial switch 28 to "executed."

On the other hand, when the MFP 1 receives an instruction to iconize or stop the notification by operating the "X" button 542 on the notification screen 54, it iconizes or stops the display of the notification screen 54. This allows the user to operate the home screen 50. Thereafter, when the MFP 1 displays the home screen 50, if the unknown information stored in C31 is stored, it displays the notification screen 54, and if the out-of-period information stored in C05 is stored, it displays the notification screen 51.

When unknown information is stored in C31, MFP1 periodically attempts to connect to the Internet 200. In this case, MFP1 should attempt to connect more frequently than the frequency at which it sends a confirmation command to server 3. Then, when the connection to the Internet 200 is restored, MFP1 sends a confirmation command to server 3 regardless of the predetermined timing for sending the confirmation command. Then, when status information is received from server 3, MFP1 erases the unknown information and executes processing according to the type of status information received.

If the MFP 1 cannot receive status information from the server 3, the MFP 1 may continue to restrict the use of the trial mode. For example, the MFP 1 may not accept operation on the "x" button 542 on the notification screen 54 until the connection to the Internet 200 is restored. Furthermore, the notification screen 54 displayed by C32 is not limited to a notification that the MFP 1 is not connected to the Internet 200, and may also notify, for example, that there is an abnormality in communication with the server 3, that a problem has occurred in the trial mode, or that the use of the trial mode will be restricted.

Next, the procedure for activating the additional functions of the MFP1 will be described with reference to the sequence diagram in FIG. 11. When a user who uses the MFP1 enters into a contract for activation of the additional functions, a sales representative or the like uses, for example, a PC5 to carry out the procedure for activating the additional functions of the MFP1. The PC5 in FIG. 11 is a device equipped with an application for activating the additional functions, and may be the same device as the PC5 in FIG. 5, or may be a different device.

The user of PC5 starts an app for enabling an additional function on PC5, specifies the type of additional function to be enabled and the identification information of MFP1, and inputs an activation instruction to the app on PC5 (D01). PC5 accesses server3 and transmits the received activation instruction information (D02). Server3 generates an activation command based on the received activation instruction, and transmits the generated activation command to PC5 (D03). The activation command includes the identification information of MFP1. Note that server3 may store the activation information in memory 32.

The application on the PC 5 sends the received activation command to the MFP 1 (D05). This inputs the activation command to the MFP 1. The MFP 1 turns on the corresponding function switches 25 to 27 based on the input activation command (D06).

Note that steps D02 to D06 may involve transmitting an activation instruction from the MFP 1 to the server 3, and the server 3 may then transmit an activation command to the MFP 1, similar to the procedure for starting the trial mode. The activation command received by the PC 5 may be input to the MFP 1 via a USB memory or the like, or may be manually input to the MFP 1 by a person in charge.

When the MFP 1 receives the input of the activation command, it determines whether or not it is within the trial mode period (D07). If it determines that it is within the trial mode period, it determines whether or not the function switches 25-27 of all additional functions have been turned on by the current activation (D08). If it determines that all additional functions have been turned on, the MFP 1 ends the trial mode (D09). Specifically, the MFP 1 sends trial end information to the server 3, and changes the trial switch 28 of its own device to "executed." If out-of-period information or unknown information is stored, the MFP 1 also deletes that information. The server 3 deletes the information stored in the trial DB 43.

When all additional functions have been enabled, the MFP1 ends the trial mode and does not check the validity period thereafter. However, if there is one or more additional functions that have not been enabled, the MFP1 continues in the trial mode.

As described above in detail, according to the system 100 of this embodiment, the MFP 1 has a trial mode, during which all additional functions can be tried out. Therefore, the user of the MFP 1 can try out the additional functions. Furthermore, if the MFP 1 determines that the trial mode is not in effect, it displays a notification screen 51 on the home screen 50, so that the user can recognize that the trial mode has ended and can avoid being unable to use the additional functions unexpectedly.

In addition, in this embodiment, the server 3 manages the validity period of the trial mode, which prevents fraudulent acts such as changing the time settings of the MFP 1 and allows the validity period to be set appropriately. Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the server 3 determines that the validity period has expired, the notification screen 51 is displayed each time the home screen 50 is displayed, so that the user is frequently notified that the trial mode is about to end, which is expected to prompt the user to perform an operation to end the trial mode.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, multiple additional functions can all be tried out in the trial mode, eliminating the need to manage the validity period for each additional function, and reducing the burden of period management. Also, since all additional functions can be used, more trials are possible, which is convenient for the user. Also, in this embodiment, trial switch 28 is provided separately from function switches 25 to 27, so that each of function switches 25 to 27 can be enabled independently even during trial mode. Furthermore, even if an instruction is given to enable some additional functions, the trial mode is not terminated, and additional functions that have not been enabled can continue to be available, making it easy for the user to try out multiple additional functions.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the MFP 1 or the PC 5 transmits a start request to the server 3. If the MFP 1 itself transmits the start request and receives the start command, the trial mode can be set up in the MFP 1 without a separate device having a dedicated app installed for accessing the server 3. Also, if the PC 5 transmits a start request to the server 3 using an app, a trial mode start request can be made from a single PC 5 to multiple devices including the MFP 1, reducing the effort required for setup when there are multiple devices that are targets for the trial mode.

In addition, in this embodiment, the trial mode is terminated when an end instruction from the user is received on each notification screen, reducing the possibility that the trial mode will end in the middle of execution of a job that uses an additional function. Furthermore, if an accumulated job is stored in memory 12, a notification is given before restart and an instruction as to whether or not to execute the accumulated job is received, so the user can understand that the accumulated job will be erased by restart, and it is expected that the trial mode will be terminated appropriately.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the MFP 1 periodically checks the validity period with the server 3, so the validity period of the trial mode can be strictly managed. Also, when the validity period is about to expire, a notification is sent, so the user can know that the trial mode is about to expire.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, if status information cannot be received from the server 3, a notification screen 54 indicating a poor connection is displayed, so the user can recognize the communication abnormality. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the notification screen 54 is displayed when the home screen 50 is displayed, so that the communication abnormality is frequently notified, and it is expected that the user will be prompted to perform an operation to resolve the communication abnormality. Furthermore, even if there is an abnormality in communication with the server 3 and the validity period of the trial mode cannot be determined, the trial mode is maintained, so that the possibility of the trial mode ending in the middle of execution of a job that uses an additional function can be reduced. Furthermore, if communication with the server 3 is restored after a notification of an abnormality in communication with the server 3, the notification screen 54 is stopped, so the user can recognize that communication has been restored and is not annoyed by the notification.

Next, the procedure for ending the trial mode in the MFP1 of this embodiment will be described. First, the outline of the procedure for the trial end process, which is the process performed when the trial mode is ended, will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 12. The trial end process is executed by the CPU 11 of the MFP1 when a restart instruction is received outside the valid period. The trial end process in FIG. 12 is executed between C11 and C12 in FIG. 6, or after C12 to C123 and before C13.

As mentioned above, there are multiple additional functions that can be tried by enabling the trial mode, such as secure printing, custom UI, barcode printing, and cloud storage. In the trial termination process, the CPU 11 performs various processes for termination, in order, for the multiple additional functions that have become trialable in the trial mode. To do this, the CPU 11 first selects one of the additional functions (S101).

Then, the CPU 11 determines whether the additional function selected in S101 is enabled (S103). If an additional function is enabled during the validity period of the trial mode, as described above, the switch corresponding to that additional function among the function switches 25 to 27 is turned on. The information indicated by the state of each function switch 25 to 27 is an example of function information for each type of additional function. Information indicating that a function switch is on is an example of information indicating that the function is enabled, and information indicating that a function switch is off is an example of information indicating that the function is disabled. Also, as described above, the process in which the MFP 1 turns on the corresponding function switch 25 to 27 upon receiving an enable instruction from the user (D06 in FIG. 11) is an example of a change process.

If it is determined that the selected additional function is not enabled (S103: NO), the CPU 11 initializes the setting information specific to the additional function (S104). Furthermore, the CPU 11 erases the data specific to the additional function (S105). S104 and S105 are an example of the initialization process.

The unique setting information is used only to use the selected additional function, and is stored in memory 12 in association with the additional function. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, when MFP 1 receives an instruction to execute an additional function displayed as selectable in A14, MFP 1 receives an instruction input in A15 to set the setting information to be used by that additional function, for example, based on an operation on user IF 13. A15 in FIG. 2 is an example of input processing. Based on the received instruction, MFP 1 stores the setting information in a non-volatile area of memory 12, and when executing the additional function (for example, A16 in FIG. 2), reads out and uses the setting information stored in association with that additional function.

Depending on the additional function, unique data used only by that additional function is obtained through user input or communication with an external device, etc., and stored in memory 12, and the data is read and used when the additional function is executed. In other words, the unique setting information and unique data are used only by the selected additional function, and are not used by other functions. Details regarding the unique setting information and unique data will be provided later.

Functions that are not enabled will become unavailable after the trial mode ends. Therefore, the unique setting information and unique data stored in memory 12 corresponding to those functions will no longer be used. If unused information remains in memory 12, the risk of information leakage increases, so when the trial mode ends, MFP 1 initializes the setting information unique to functions that are not enabled and erases the unique data. Furthermore, by erasing the unique data, MFP 1 reduces the load on memory 12.

Next, CPU 11 determines whether the selected additional function is a function that uses setting information shared with other functions (S111). Setting information includes information that is shared by multiple functions. Even if the selected additional function is not enabled, if other functions that share the information are enabled, the setting information will continue to be used. If it is determined that there is a function that shares information (S111: YES), CPU 11 determines whether the function with which the setting information is shared is enabled (S112). Then, if it is determined that the function with which the setting information is shared is not enabled either (S112: NO), CPU 11 initializes the shared setting information and shared data (S113). S113 is an example of initialization processing.

After S113, or if it is determined that the selected function is enabled (S103: YES), or if it is determined that there is no function to share information (S111: NO), or if it is determined that the sharing partner is valid (S112: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether there is an unselected additional function (S121). If it is determined that there is an unselected additional function (S121: YES), the process returns to S101, where the next additional function is selected and the same process is performed. If it is determined that there is no unselected additional function (S121: NO), that is, if it is determined that processing for all additional functions has been completed, the CPU 11 ends the trial end process.

Enabled functions remain available even after the trial mode has ended. For example, it is desirable that setting information received during the validity period of the trial mode continue to be available even after the trial mode has ended. Also, if there is a function for sharing setting information and that function is enabled, it is desirable that the setting information continue to be available even after the trial mode has ended. Therefore, if the selected additional function is enabled or the function for sharing information is enabled, the CPU 11 does not perform the process of S104 or S105 even if the setting information or data is stored in the memory 12. Note that if an additional function is enabled, the MFP 1 can continue to accept not only execution instructions for that additional function, but also additions and changes to setting information for that additional function.

Next, each additional function will be described in detail. First, "cloud storage" will be described. The cloud storage function is a function that stores scan data obtained by scanning a document in a specified storage destination such as a cloud. When an instruction to use the cloud storage function is received within the validity period of the trial mode, the MFP1 receives input of an address indicating the storage destination of the scan data and authentication information for storage, and stores this information in memory 12 for use in the cloud storage function.

The cloud storage function is a function that uses unique setting information and unique data. In the trial end process, if the selected additional function is the cloud storage function and the cloud storage function is not enabled, the CPU 11 initializes the information indicating the storage destination in S104 or S105. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs processes such as erasing the address and authentication information, changing the address to a predetermined initial address, etc.

Next, the "custom UI" will be described. The custom UI function is a function that changes the display form of the UI screen displayed on the user IF 13 of the MFP 1 to accept user operations from the default display form. When the MFP 1 accepts an instruction to use the custom UI function, it acquires, for example, data for the custom UI provided by a vendor, and stores the acquired information in memory 12 as setting information or data specific to the custom UI function. Then, if data for the custom UI is stored in memory 12 when the MFP 1 displays the UI screen, it reads out the data and uses the read out data to display the UI screen. Examples of data specific to the custom UI function include icon data, background image data, and fonts of characters displayed on the UI screen.

In the trial end process, if the selected additional function is a custom UI function and the custom UI function is not enabled, the CPU 11 initializes the setting information for the custom UI stored in the memory 12 in S104 or S105 and erases various data acquired for the custom UI. Note that the custom UI function may accept a user selection from multiple types of icons, for example. In that case, the information indicating the type of icon to be used is setting information unique to the custom UI function. If the custom UI function is not enabled, the CPU 11 may initialize the information indicating the icon to be used in S104, thereby returning the icon to the initial setting.

Next, we will explain "secure printing." "Secure printing" is a function that accumulates and prints print jobs to which authentication information is added. The MFP1 of this embodiment has a first secure printing function (hereinafter referred to as "first SP function") as a basic function, and has a second secure printing function (hereinafter referred to as "second SP function") and a third secure printing function (hereinafter referred to as "third SP function") as additional functions.

These three types of secure print functions are mutually exclusive, and the MFP 1 enables only one of them. The second SP function and the third SP function are examples of the first and second exclusive special functions, and the first SP function is an example of a predetermined function that is enabled from the time of shipment from the factory. During the valid period of the trial mode, the MFP 1 can use both the second SP function and the third SP function. When the MFP 1 starts the trial mode (for example, A06 in FIG. 2), it stores information to enable the second SP function in the non-volatile storage area of the memory 12, and disables the first SP function and the third SP function. During the valid period of the trial mode, the MFP 1 accepts an instruction to switch to enable either the second SP function or the third SP function by operating the user IF 13. When a selection to enable one function is accepted, the MFP 1 enables one function and disables the other.

When processing a print job using the secure print function, the MFP 1 determines whether the execution conditions are met based on input operations made to the user IF 13, and if it determines that the execution conditions are met, it becomes possible to execute printing based on image data contained in the stored print job. The first SP function, second SP function, and third SP function have different execution conditions and different storage locations for print jobs, as shown in FIG. 13, for example. Note that the execution conditions in FIG. 13 may be, for example, conditions that allow the selection of a print job to be accepted. The MFP 1 may accept the selection of a print job after the execution conditions in FIG. 13 are met, or may determine the execution conditions after accepting the selection of a print job.

The storage location of print jobs by each secure print function will be explained. Both the first SP function and the second SP function are functions that read and print print jobs stored in memory 12 of MFP1. When MFP1 receives a print job that uses the first SP function or the second SP function while that function is enabled, it stores the print job in memory 12 and does not print it until the execution conditions are met. The first SP function and the second SP function are examples of stored job functions. A print job stored in memory 12 using the first SP function or the second SP function is an example of a first job.

The print job of the first SP function or the second SP function may be stored in a volatile storage area of the memory 12 or in a non-volatile storage area. The MFP 1 can also accept a setting to store the print job in an external device locally connected to the MFP 1, such as a USB memory. The MFP 1 accepts, as setting information for the first SP function or the second SP function, a setting of storage destination information indicating the storage location of the print job, for example, whether to store the print job in the memory 12 in the main body or in a USB memory. The storage destination information indicating the storage location of the print job is setting information shared by the first SP function and the second SP function.

On the other hand, the third SP function is a function that reads and prints a print job stored not in the memory 12 of the MFP 1 but in an external device connected via a network. The MFP 1 can be connected to a shared server 300, for example, as shown in FIG. 14. The shared server 300 is a device different from the server 3, and is a device that can be connected not only to the MFP 1 but also to other MFPs and PCs, etc., and is a device that can store print jobs. The third SP function is an example of a server stored job function. The print job stored in the shared server 300 is an example of a second job. Note that a print job that uses the third SP function is not passed directly to the MFP 1, but is passed to the shared server 300 from, for example, a PC connected to the shared server 300, and stored in the memory of the shared server 300.

When the MFP 1 receives an instruction to enable the third SP function, it receives input of connection information for communicating with the shared server 300 where the print job is stored and address information indicating the storage location of the print job, and stores the received information in memory 12. The connection between the MFP 1 and the shared server 300 may be via the Internet 200 or via a local network. The access information of the shared server 300, including the connection information and address information, is information that is not used by the first SP function or the second SP function, and is an example of setting information specific to the third SP function.

In addition, the setting information shared by the first SP function, the second SP function, and the third SP function includes information indicating the storage period for print jobs. The MFP 1 accepts settings for the storage period for print jobs that remain stored in a memory location other than the RAM in the memory 12 and do not meet the execution conditions, and stores the accepted information indicating the storage period in the memory 12. If the MFP 1 determines that the time that has elapsed since the print job was stored has exceeded the set storage period, it deletes the print job without printing it. The second SP function and the third SP function, which share storage period information, are an example of a first shared special function and a second shared special function.

Next, the execution conditions of each secure print function will be described. A print job by the first SP function is provided with individual authentication information for each job, such as a PIN code. When authentication information is provided for a print job for which a print instruction is received while the first SP function is active, the MFP 1 accepts the input of authentication information by the user using the user IF 13 of the MFP 1. When the authentication information provided for the print job matches the input authentication information, the MFP 1 determines that the input authentication information is correct and that the execution conditions are met. The authentication information is an example of second input information, and the first SP function is an example of a stored job function of the second method. In the first SP function, the MFP 1 accepts the selection of a print job, then accepts the input of authentication information, and determines that the execution conditions are met if it determines that the authentication information is correct.

A print job by the second SP function or the third SP function is provided with user information indicating the user who instructed the printing. When the second SP function or the third SP function is enabled, the MFP1 accepts login input by the user using the user IF 13 of the MFP1. The MFP1 stores login information for login authentication, such as a combination of a user name and password, in a non-volatile storage area of the memory 12, and performs login authentication based on the accepted login input and the login information stored in the memory 12. The login input accepted when the second SP function is enabled is an example of the first input information, and the second SP function is an example of the first type of accumulated job function.

If login authentication is successful, MFP1 determines that the accepted login input is appropriate. If login authentication is successful with the second SP function enabled, MFP1 becomes able to accept, for example, selection of a print job to which user information indicating the logged-in user is added and an instruction to execute printing. Also, if login authentication is successful with the third SP function enabled, MFP1 becomes able to communicate with shared server 300 and accept, for example, selection of a print job to which user information indicating the logged-in user is added and an instruction to read the print job. With the second SP function or third SP function, MFP1 determines that the execution conditions are met if login authentication is successful and a print job specification is accepted.

In the trial end process, if the additional function selected in S101 is one of the secure print functions, the CPU 11 determines in S103 whether both the selected secure print function and the other secure print function are enabled. For example, if the selected additional function is the second SP function, the CPU 11 determines whether either the second SP function or the third SP function is enabled. As described above, since the secure print functions are mutually exclusive, if neither the second SP function nor the third SP function is enabled, the first SP function is enabled, as in the factory default state. Then, in the process from S104 onwards, the CPU 11 initializes information and erases data, for example, as shown in FIG. 15.

If neither the second SP function nor the third SP function is enabled when the trial end process is executed, the CPU 11 initializes the access information of the shared server 300, which is the setting information specific to the third SP function, in S104, and erases the print job stored in the second SP function, which is the data specific to the second SP function, in S105. If the second SP function is not enabled and a print job using the second SP function is stored in the memory 12, the CPU 11 erases the image data of the print job in S105. S105 in this case is an example of the erasure process. As described above, the MFP 1 may notify the user before erasing the print job (for example, C121 in FIG. 6) and accept a user's instruction on whether or not to execute printing before the end. In addition, if the print job to be erased is stored in a removable storage device such as a USB memory, the MFP 1 may not erase the print job.

In addition, if neither the second SP function nor the third SP function is enabled when the trial end process is executed, the first SP function is enabled, and therefore the CPU 11 determines in S112 that the shared function is enabled for the print job save destination information, which is setting information shared between the first SP function and the second SP function, and does not initialize it.

When the storage location of the print job indicated by the save destination information is the RAM of memory 12, CPU 11 may initialize the information on the storage period. Since the storage period does not apply to print jobs stored in RAM, it is highly likely that the information will not be used thereafter, and may be set to a predetermined period, for example, one day. Also, for example, when the login information is not used for functions other than the secure print function, and neither the second SP function nor the third SP function is enabled, CPU 11 may erase the login information stored in memory 12.

On the other hand, if the second SP function is enabled, the CPU 11 initializes the access information of the shared server 300, which is setting information specific to the third SP function, and erases the print jobs stored in the first SP function, which is data specific to the first SP function. In this case, the CPU 11 does not initialize the save destination information or storage period information of the print jobs.

Furthermore, if the selected additional function, the second SP function, is not enabled but the third SP function is enabled, the CPU 11 initializes the save destination information for the print job, which is setting information shared between the first SP function and the second SP function, because it determines in S112 that the function to be shared is also not enabled. The CPU 11 sets the save destination to a predetermined memory location, for example, the RAM of the memory 12. Furthermore, the CPU 11 erases the print jobs stored in the first SP function or the second SP function.

In the trial end process, the CPU 11 does not erase a print job that uses the third SP function stored in the shared server 300, regardless of which secure print function is enabled. If the third SP function is not enabled at the end of the trial mode, the execution of the trial end process causes the MFP 1 to initialize the access information of the shared server 300, and the MFP 1 will no longer be able to read print jobs from the shared server 300. However, the shared server 300 can be connected to devices other than the MFP 1. For example, if the third SP function is enabled in another MFP connected to the shared server 300, the print job stored in the shared server 300 can be printed by using the third SP function of the other MFP. Therefore, by not erasing the print job stored in the shared server 300, a problem in which image data cannot be used by other image processing devices can be avoided.

In addition, when switching between the second SP function and the third SP function during the valid period of the trial mode, the MFP 1 does not execute a trial end process, and does not initialize the setting information or erase the unique data even if the disabled function has unique information. For example, when an instruction to enable the second SP function is received from a state in which the third SP function is enabled during the valid period of the trial mode, the MFP 1 does not erase the connection information and address information with the shared server 300 used by the third SP function. In addition, for example, when an instruction to enable the third SP function is received from a state in which the second SP function is enabled during the valid period of the trial mode, the MFP 1 does not erase the print job that uses the second SP function. Since there is a possibility that an instruction to switch functions will be received again during the valid period of the trial mode, by not erasing the information, the user can be spared the trouble of re-entering the information.

Next, we will explain "barcode printing." The barcode printing function is a function that generates a barcode image based on a specified numeric string and prints the generated barcode image. With the barcode printing function, the MFP 1 does not use unique setting information or data, nor shared setting information or data. Even if the MFP 1 receives an instruction to use the barcode printing function during the validity period of the trial mode, it does not accept setting instructions from the user, and does not store setting information in memory 12. If the selected additional function is a function that does not use setting information such as the barcode printing function, the CPU 11 does not initialize the setting information or erase data, regardless of whether the function is valid or not.

Next, the process when the state of the trial switch 28 (see FIG. 1) of the MFP 1 is changed during the valid period of the trial mode, for example, due to work by a maintenance worker, will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of FIG. 16. As described above, when the MFP 1 receives a start command to start the trial mode (A05 in FIG. 2), it changes the trial switch 28 from off to on (A06). At the start of the sequence diagram of FIG. 16, the trial mode is still in its valid period, and the trial switch 28 is on.

Then, the MFP 1 may receive an instruction to change the state of the trial switch 28 to OFF even during the valid period of the trial mode, for example, by an operation by an operator (E01). As a result, the MFP 1 turns off the trial switch 28 even though it has not received information indicating that the valid period has expired from the server 3 (E02). The MFP 1 may receive, for example, a command to forcibly turn off the trial switch 28, or may turn off the trial switch 28 by receiving an operation on an internal hardware switch. The information indicating the state of the trial switch 28 is an example of trial mode information. The OFF state of the trial switch 28 is information indicating that the trial mode is disabled, and the ON state of the trial switch 28 is information indicating that the trial mode is enabled. Note that the MFP 1 may be able to receive an instruction to change the state of the trial switch 28 by an operation on the user IF 13 or by receiving a command from an external device.

When the MFP 1 is restarted with the trial switch 28 off, the MFP 1 determines at A05 in FIG. 2 that the trial switch 28 is off, and so is placed in a state in which additional functions other than those enabled by the function switches 25 to 27 cannot be used. However, even when the MFP 1 is restarted with the trial switch 28 off, if information indicating that the trial mode is no longer in effect is not stored in the memory 12, the MFP 1 does not execute the trial end process. In other words, the MFP 1 retains the information on the additional functions in the memory 12 by not initializing the setting information for the additional functions and not erasing the data related to the additional functions. The information indicating that the trial mode is no longer in effect is stored in the memory 12, for example, at C05 in FIG. 6, when information indicating that the trial mode is no longer in effect is received from the server 3.

As described above, if the MFP 1 has not received information from the server 3 indicating that the validity period has expired, even if the trial switch 28 is off, the MFP 1 accesses the server 3 via the Internet 200 at a predetermined regular interval and transmits a confirmation command to the server 3 to confirm whether or not the validity period has expired (E03). E03 is the same process as C01 in FIG. 6. The timing at which the MFP 1 transmits E03 is an example of the third timing.

Then, the MFP 1 receives status information from the server 3 (E04). If the trial mode is still within the valid period, the server 3 transmits status information indicating that the period is still within, as described above. Therefore, the MFP 1 receives status information indicating that the period is still within, in E04. In this case, E04 is the same process as C03 in FIG. 6. Then, when the MFP 1 receives information indicating that the period is still within from the server 3, if the trial switch 28 is off, it turns on the trial switch 28 (E05).

As a result, the MFP 1 enters trial mode again, and the additional function becomes available. Then, when the MFP 1 receives an instruction to execute the additional function, it can use the setting information and data stored in memory 12, and can also accept changes to or additions to the setting information and data. Because internal operations are highly likely not the user's intention, by not initializing the setting information, a decrease in user convenience is suppressed.

For example, after the maintenance worker has finished the work, the MFP 1 may again accept an instruction to change the state of the trial switch 28. This allows the MFP 1 to use the additional functions again even if the trial switch 28 is turned on. Alternatively, the MFP 1 may be able to accept an instruction to start the trial again after being restarted with the trial switch 28 turned off. In this case, the MFP 1 sends a request to start the trial mode to the server 3 as described above (A02 in FIG. 2). Since the server 3 has already stored information on the valid period of the trial mode of the MFP 1, the server 3 may send a start command without setting a new period if it is within the valid period (A05). In this case as well, the MFP 1 turns on the trial switch 28 and enters the trial mode.

As described above in detail, in the system 100 of this embodiment, after the trial mode ends, the MFP 1 does not accept an instruction to execute an additional function that is not enabled, and therefore the setting information used by the additional function that is not enabled is not used. In this case, even though the user no longer uses the setting information and is no longer aware of its existence, the setting information is likely to remain in the memory 12, increasing the risk of the setting information being leaked. The MFP 1 of this embodiment initializes the setting information used by the additional function that is not enabled in the trial end process, thereby reducing the risk of the setting information being leaked. On the other hand, the MFP 1 does not initialize the setting information for the additional function that is enabled when the trial mode ends, so the user can continue to use the setting information and does not need to re-enter the setting information, thereby reducing the user's effort.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the MFP1 initializes the setting information used by additional functions that are not enabled during the trial termination process, thereby reducing the increase in the load on the memory 12.

Furthermore, in this embodiment of the MFP1, during the trial termination process, the MFP1 initializes setting information specific to additional functions that are not enabled, and does not initialize shared setting information if the additional functions of the other party are enabled. Therefore, the setting information can be used when using the additional functions of the other party, and the trouble of re-entering information is avoided. On the other hand, if the additional functions of the other party are not enabled either, the setting information is initialized, thereby reducing the risk of information leakage.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, when the second SP function is not enabled and a print job using the second SP function is stored in memory 12, the MFP 1 erases the print job in the trial termination process. Since a print job using the second SP function cannot be executed by the first SP function or the third SP function, the risk of information leakage can be further reduced by erasing the print job. On the other hand, when the second SP function is enabled, the MFP 1 does not erase the print job printed by the second SP function, so that the user's effort to resubmit the print job can be reduced. In addition, in the present embodiment, even if the third SP function is not enabled and a print job using the third SP function is stored in a shared server, the MFP 1 does not erase the print job, so that the problem of the image data of the print job becoming unavailable to other image processing devices can be avoided.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the trial switch 28 is turned off during the valid period of the trial mode due to maintenance work or the like, the MFP1 does not execute the trial end process and does not initialize the setting information, so that information is not lost against the user's intention.

Note that this embodiment is merely an example and does not limit the present invention in any way. Naturally, the technology disclosed in this specification can be improved and modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, an example of an image processing device is not limited to an MFP, but can be a printer, scanner, fax machine, computer sewing machine, or any other device that has an image processing function and a function for connecting to the Internet 200. In addition, the shared server 300 and server 3 may be the same device.

The notification screens illustrated in this specification are all merely examples, and the layout of each notification screen and the text contained therein are not limited to those illustrated in these figures. For example, in this embodiment, notification screen 51 is displayed, and then notification screen 52 is displayed depending on whether there are stored jobs. However, notification screen 51 with different notification content may be displayed depending on whether there are stored jobs. Also, notifications of an imminent expiration period or connection failure may not be displayed. In this case, the status information sent from server 3 may be information indicating only whether the valid period is within or outside the valid period.

In addition, for example, in this embodiment, notification screens 51, 53, and 54 are displayed when home screen 50 is displayed, but the timing of display is not limited to this. For example, they may be displayed periodically, or when an operation on user IF 13 is accepted. Furthermore, each notification screen may be displayed on the settings screen when a process related to an additional function is selected. Even when displayed on the settings screen, various operations on the settings screen may be restricted by the notification screen.

In this embodiment, the notification screens 51 and 52 accept an instruction to iconize or stop the notification, but this may not be the case. In other words, the MFP 1 may only accept an instruction to restart if it is outside the valid period. If the notification screens 51 and 52 are displayed and a predetermined waiting time has elapsed and no user operation is accepted, the MFP 1 may automatically restart. For example, if the state of the trial switch 28 can be changed without restarting, the MFP 1 may only change the state of the trial switch 28 and not restart. Instead of changing the state of the trial switch 28 to "executed," the MFP 1 may erase the trial switch 28. For example, the MFP 1 may set the trial mode with the state of the function switch. For example, in addition to off and on, a trial mode state may be set as the state of the function switch. Information on the execution of the trial mode may be stored by the server 3.

In addition, for example, the validity period may be managed by the MFP 1. However, by having the server 3 manage it, there is a high possibility that appropriate management will be achieved. In addition, in this embodiment, the trial mode is not automatically terminated even if there is an abnormality in communication with the server 3, but the trial mode may be forcibly terminated if status information cannot be obtained a predetermined number of times in succession. In this case, it is advisable to notify the end of the trial mode even after it has been terminated.

In addition, in this embodiment, when an instruction to enable an additional function is received, it is determined whether or not it is within the trial mode period, but this is not necessary. For example, if it is determined that the trial mode is not in effect, the enablement status of the additional functions can be checked, and if all additional functions are enabled, the trial mode can be terminated without issuing an alert. In this embodiment, it is described that MFP1 has multiple additional functions that can be enabled individually, but there may be only one additional function. In addition, it is described that all additional functions can be tried in the trial mode, but a trial may be accepted for each function.

In addition, in this embodiment, the trial switch 28 is provided separately from the function switches 25 to 27, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the states of the function switches 25 to 27 may include a trial mode state in addition to off and on. When the trial mode is started, the MFP 1 may switch all of the function switches 25 to 27 that are not on to a trial mode state.

In addition, in this embodiment, the MFP 1 is described as having three types of secure print functions, but this is not limited to this. For example, the first SP function may not be present. Alternatively, the MFP 1 may have only one of the second SP function and the third SP function as an additional function. Furthermore, the MFP 1 may have, for example, a secure print function with different execution conditions in addition to the three types.

In addition, in this embodiment, when executing a print job using the second SP function or the third SP function, if login authentication is successful, the MFP 1 accepts the selection of the print job to be executed from the print jobs of that user, but the reverse order may also be used. In other words, if the selected print job is a print job using the second SP function or the third SP function, the MFP 1 may request login input. Alternatively, all print jobs of a user who has been successfully authenticated may be executed. Even in this case, login authentication is included in the execution conditions, and the MFP 1 is able to execute the print job after login authentication is successful.

Also, for example, MFP1 may be able to accept selection of the first SP function even during the valid period of the trial mode. For example, MFP1 may not enable the second SP function when the trial mode starts, and may not enable either the second SP function or the third SP function unless a trial instruction is received from the user. Alternatively, MFP1 may enable the second SP function when the trial mode starts, and may allow selection of the first SP function, the second SP function, or the third SP function within the valid period of the trial mode.

In addition, in this embodiment, the setting information is not initialized when switching between the second SP function and the third SP function during the valid period of the trial mode, but it may be initialized. Alternatively, the user may be queried as to whether or not to initialize. Furthermore, when an instruction to switch from the second SP function to another SP function is received during the valid period of the trial mode, if a print job received by the second SP function remains in memory 12, that print job may be erased, or a notification may be issued that the print job will no longer be able to be printed.

In addition, for example, in this embodiment, the additional functions are installed in the MFP 1 as function programs 22 to 24 at the time of shipment from the factory, but there may be functions that can be installed after shipment from the factory. For example, the MFP 1 may be able to install new additional functions by updating the firmware. Since the timing of the firmware update is unrelated to the validity period of the trial mode, for example, it is possible that a new additional function will be installed during the validity period of the trial mode. When the firmware update makes it possible to try out a new additional function, the MFP 1 accepts an instruction to try it with the setting information used by that function in an initialized state. However, the MFP 1 does not transmit firmware update information to the server 3, and the validity period of the trial mode is not changed.

In addition, in any sequence diagram disclosed in the embodiments, the execution order of multiple processes in any multiple steps can be changed or they can be executed in parallel as long as no inconsistencies occur in the process content.

The processes disclosed in the embodiments may be executed by a single CPU, multiple CPUs, hardware such as an ASIC, or a combination of these. The processes disclosed in the embodiments may be realized in various ways, such as a recording medium on which a program for executing the processes is recorded, or a method.

1. MFP
3 Server 11 CPU
12 Memory 13 User IF
15 Image forming unit 16 Image reading unit 100 System 300 Shared server

Claims (11)

An image processing system including an image processing device and a server,
the image processing device has a special function, function information indicating whether the special function is enabled or disabled is stored in a memory of the image processing device, the special function is disabled at the time of shipment from the factory, and the function information indicating that the special function is disabled is stored in the memory;
The image processing device includes:
when an instruction to enable the special function is received, the function information stored in the memory is changed to the function information indicating that the special function is enabled, thereby enabling the special function;
The server,
receiving a request to initiate a trial mode to enable a trial of the special function, the request including identification information of the imaging device;
Furthermore, the server
upon receiving the start request, setting a valid period of the trial mode, storing period information indicating the set valid period of the trial mode in association with identification information of the image processing device included in the received start request, and outputting a start command indicating the start of the trial mode;
The image processing device includes:
When the start command is input, the trial mode is started, and the special function is enabled during the validity period of the trial mode;
The image processing device further comprises:
during a period during which the special function is valid, it is possible to input setting information used in the special function by operating a user interface of the image processing device, the input setting information is stored in the memory, and processing related to the special function is executed in accordance with the setting information stored in the memory;
The image processing device further comprises:
transmitting a confirmation command to the server at a first timing during a valid period of the trial mode, the confirmation command including identification information of the image processing device;
The server,
When the confirmation command is received from the image processing device, a determination is made as to whether or not the trial mode is within a valid period based on the period information associated with the identification information of the image processing device included in the received confirmation command, and a status information indicating the determination result is returned to the image processing device;
The image processing device includes:
terminating the trial mode at a second timing after receiving the status information indicating that the trial mode is no longer valid from the server;
The image processing device further comprises:
When the trial mode is ended,
If the function information indicating that the special function is disabled is stored in the memory, an initialization process is executed to initialize the setting information stored in the memory;
If the function information indicating that the special function is enabled is stored in the memory, the initialization process is not executed, and the process related to the special function can be continued to be executed according to the setting information stored in the memory, and further, the setting information can be continued to be input by an operation using the user interface.
1. An image processing system comprising: 2. The image processing system according to claim 1,
The image processing device includes an image processing unit,
The image processing device further comprises:
a storage job function for storing the image data of the first job in the memory when a first job including image data is accepted until an execution condition of the first job is satisfied based on an input operation to the user interface, and executing processing by the image processing unit based on the image data of the first job after the execution condition of the first job is satisfied, the special function has a plurality of types, the function information is stored in the memory for each type of the special function, and the storage job function includes a first type of storage job function and a second type of storage job function having different execution conditions, and when the first type of storage job function is enabled, the second type of storage job function is enabled when the accumulated job function of the first method is disabled, the accumulated job function of the second method is enabled, when the accumulated job function of the first method is enabled, input of first input information is accepted by the input operation on the user interface, and the execution condition is that the inputted first input information is correct, when the accumulated job function of the second method is enabled, input of second input information is accepted by the input operation on the user interface, and the execution condition is that the inputted second input information is correct, the accumulated job function of the first method is included in the special function, and the accumulated job function of the second method is not included in the special function,
The image processing device further comprises:
When the trial mode is ended,
if the function information indicating that the stored job function of the first method is disabled is stored in the memory, the initialization process is executed to initialize the setting information for the stored job function of the first method stored in the memory, and further, an erasure process is executed to erase the image data of the first job stored in the memory;
if the function information indicating that the stored job function of the first method is enabled is stored in the memory, the initialization process and the deletion process are not executed, and the process related to the stored job function of the first method can be continued for the first job stored in the memory in accordance with the setting information for the stored job function of the first method stored in the memory, and further, the setting information for the stored job function of the first method can be continued to be input by an operation using the user interface.
1. An image processing system comprising: 3. The image processing system according to claim 2,
the image processing device is connected to a shared server which is also connectable to other image processing devices, and the shared server is capable of storing image data included in a second job;
The image processing device further comprises:
a server stored job function of receiving an execution instruction for the second job by an operation using the user interface, and when the execution instruction for the second job is received, reading out the image data of the second job from the shared server and then executing processing by the image processing unit based on the image data of the second job, the server stored job function being included in the special function;
The image processing device further comprises:
When the trial mode is ended,
If the function information indicating that the server stored job function is disabled is stored in the memory, the initialization process is executed to initialize the setting information for the server stored job function stored in the memory;
if the function information indicating that the server stored job function is enabled is stored in the memory, the initialization process is not executed, and the process related to the server stored job function can be continued for the second job stored in the shared server in accordance with the setting information for the server stored job function stored in the memory; and further, the setting information for the server stored job function can be continued to be input by an operation using the user interface;
Furthermore, even if any of the stored job function of the first method, the stored job function of the second method, and the server stored job function is enabled , the image data of the second job stored in the shared server is not erased, and the second job stored in the shared server is available from another device that can be connected to the shared server.
1. An image processing system comprising: An image processing unit;
A user interface;
Memory,
A computer,
An image processing device comprising:
the image processing device has a special function, the memory stores function information indicating whether the special function is enabled or disabled, and at the time of shipment from the factory, the memory stores the function information indicating that the special function is disabled;
The computer includes:
when an instruction to enable the special function is received, a change process is executed to enable the special function by changing the function information stored in the memory to the function information indicating that the special function is enabled;
The computer further comprises:
when an input of a start command indicating the start of a trial mode enabling a trial of the special function is received, a start process is executed to start the trial mode, a validity period is set for the trial mode, and the special function is enabled during the validity period of the trial mode;
The computer further comprises:
during a period during which the special function is valid, an input process for inputting setting information used in the special function can be executed by an operation using the user interface, the setting information inputted in the input process can be stored in the memory, and a process related to the special function can be executed in accordance with the setting information stored in the memory;
The computer further comprises:
a determination process for determining whether or not the trial mode is in a valid period at a first timing during the valid period of the trial mode;
a termination process for terminating the trial mode at a second timing after it is determined in the determination process that the trial mode is outside of its valid period;
Run
The computer further comprises:
When the trial mode is ended in the ending process,
If the function information indicating that the special function is disabled is stored in the memory, an initialization process is executed to initialize the setting information stored in the memory;
If the function information indicating the validity of the special function is stored in the memory, the initialization process is not executed, and the process related to the special function can be continued according to the setting information stored in the memory, and further the input process can be continued.
13. An image processing device comprising: 5. The image processing device according to claim 4,
the image processing device has a job storage function;
The computer includes:
When a first job including image data is received as the stored job function, the image data of the first job is stored in the memory until an execution condition of the first job is satisfied based on an input operation to the user interface, and after the execution condition of the first job is satisfied, processing is performed by the image processing unit based on the image data of the first job, there are a plurality of types of the special function, the function information is stored in the memory for each type of the special function, and further, the stored job function includes a first type of stored job function and a second type of stored job function having different execution conditions, and when the first type of stored job function is enabled, the second type of stored job function is enabled. when the accumulated job function of the first method is disabled and the accumulated job function of the second method is disabled, the accumulated job function of the second method is enabled, when the accumulated job function of the first method is enabled, input of first input information is accepted by the input operation on the user interface, and the execution condition is that the inputted first input information is correct, when the accumulated job function of the second method is enabled, input of second input information is accepted by the input operation on the user interface, and the execution condition is that the inputted second input information is correct, the accumulated job function of the first method is included in the special function, and the accumulated job function of the second method is not included in the special function,
The computer further comprises:
When the trial mode is ended in the ending process,
if the function information indicating that the stored job function of the first method is disabled is stored in the memory, the initialization process is executed to initialize the setting information for the stored job function of the first method stored in the memory, and further, an erasure process is executed to erase the image data of the first job stored in the memory;
if the function information indicating that the stored job function of the first method is enabled is stored in the memory, the initialization process and the deletion process are not executed, and the process related to the stored job function of the first method can be continued for the first job stored in the memory in accordance with the setting information for the stored job function of the first method stored in the memory, and further, the setting information for the stored job function of the first method can be continued to be input by an operation using the user interface.
13. An image processing device comprising: 6. The image processing device according to claim 5,
the image processing device is connected to a shared server which is also connectable to other image processing devices, and the shared server is capable of storing image data included in a second job;
The image processing device has a server storage job function,
The computer includes:
as the server stored job function, an instruction to execute the second job is received by an operation using the user interface, and when the instruction to execute the second job is received, the image data of the second job is read from the shared server, and then processing is performed by the image processing unit based on the image data of the second job, and the server stored job function is included in the special function;
The computer further comprises:
When the trial mode is ended in the ending process,
If the function information indicating that the server stored job function is disabled is stored in the memory, the initialization process is executed to initialize the setting information for the server stored job function stored in the memory;
if the function information indicating that the server stored job function is enabled is stored in the memory, the initialization process is not executed, and the process related to the server stored job function can be continued for the second job stored in the shared server in accordance with the setting information for the server stored job function stored in the memory; and further, the setting information for the server stored job function can be continued to be input by an operation using the user interface;
Furthermore, even if any of the stored job function of the first method, the stored job function of the second method, and the server stored job function is enabled , the image data of the second job stored in the shared server is not erased, and the second job stored in the shared server is available from another device that can be connected to the shared server.
13. An image processing device comprising: 5. The image processing device according to claim 4,
There are a plurality of types of the special function, and the special function includes a first shared special function and a second shared special function that share the setting information;
The memory stores the function information corresponding to each of the first common special function and the second common special function,
The computer includes:
When the trial mode is ended in the ending process,
When the function information indicating that one of the first shared special function and the second shared special function is disabled is stored in the memory, if the function information indicating that the other of the first shared special function and the second shared special function is also disabled is stored in the memory, the initialization process is executed to initialize the setting information stored in the memory, and if the function information indicating that the other of the first shared special function and the second shared special function is enabled is stored in the memory, the setting information is not initialized, and the setting information at the time of the end of the trial mode is inherited.
13. An image processing device comprising: 5. The image processing device according to claim 4,
There are a plurality of types of the special functions, and the special functions include a first exclusive special function and a second exclusive special function that are exclusively enabled;
The computer includes:
during a valid period of the trial mode, a selection of enabling either the first exclusive special function or the second exclusive special function is accepted using the user interface, and when the first exclusive special function is selected, the first exclusive special function is enabled and the second exclusive special function is disabled, and when the second exclusive special function is selected, the second exclusive special function is enabled and the first exclusive special function is disabled, and the setting information for the disabled special function is not initialized;
13. An image processing device comprising: 7. The image processing device according to claim 6 ,
the stored job function of the second method is enabled from the time of shipment from a factory, and the stored job function of the first method, the stored job function of the second method, and the server stored job function are functions that are enabled mutually exclusively;
The computer includes:
During a valid period of the trial mode, the stored job function and the server stored job function of the first method can be enabled,
The computer further comprises:
When the trial mode is ended in the ending process,
if neither the stored job function of the first method nor the server stored job function is enabled in the memory, the stored job function of the second method is left enabled.
13. An image processing device comprising: 10. The image processing device according to claim 4,
The memory stores trial mode information indicating whether the trial mode is enabled or disabled, and at the time of shipment from the factory, the memory stores the trial mode information indicating that the trial mode is disabled;
The computer includes:
when receiving an input of the start command indicating the start of the trial mode that enables a trial of the special function, in the start process, changing the trial mode information stored in the memory to information indicating validity, thereby starting the trial mode;
The computer further comprises:
In the determination process, a confirmation command for confirming the period of the trial mode is transmitted to a server at the first timing during a valid period of the trial mode, and when status information indicating that the valid period of the trial mode is not yet reached is received from the server, the server determines that the trial mode is not yet in its valid period, and upon receiving the confirmation command from the image processing device, the server determines whether the trial mode is still in its valid period and responds with the status information indicating the determination result to the image processing device;
The computer further comprises:
executing the termination process for changing the trial mode information stored in the memory to information indicating invalid at the second timing after it is determined in the determination process that the trial mode is outside of its valid period;
The computer further comprises:
When the trial mode is ended in the ending process,
If the function information indicating that the special function is disabled is stored in the memory, the initialization process is executed to initialize the setting information stored in the memory;
If the function information indicating the validity of the special function is stored in the memory, the initialization process is not executed, and the process related to the special function can be continued to be executed according to the setting information stored in the memory, and further the input process can be continued;
The computer further comprises:
during a valid period of the trial mode, if the status information indicating that the trial mode is outside the valid period is not received from the server and information indicating that the trial mode information is invalid is stored in the memory, the initialization process for initializing the setting information stored in the memory is not executed, and the setting information is held in the memory.
13. An image processing device comprising: 11. The image processing device according to claim 10,
The computer includes:
when the server is accessed at a third timing within the valid period of the trial mode after information indicating that the trial mode information is invalid is stored in the memory without receiving the status information indicating that the trial mode is outside the valid period of the trial mode from the server, information indicating that the trial mode information is valid is stored in the memory, and the processing related to the special function can be executed in accordance with the setting information stored in the memory, and further the input processing can be performed.
13. An image processing device comprising:

Images